In the latest *Saturday Night Live* promo, the long-running sketch show took a playful jab at actor Steven Seagal
while teasing the return of comedian Dave Chappelle for the upcoming episode.
The teaser, released on January 15, was a humorous nod to the show’s rich history, highlighting the celebrities who have passed through its iconic Studio 8H.
While the promo showcased the many A-listers who have graced the stage, it included a cheeky mention of Seagal,
who has long been known for his infamous turn as one of the most difficult hosts in SNL history.
The promo begins with the classic, dramatic narration: “Studio 8H. New York City’s hallowed comedy ground, a 50-year tradition of laughter at *Saturday Night Live*.”
As the camera pans through the hallways adorned with A-list celebrities such as *Forrest Gump* star Tom Hanks, pop sensation Ariana Grande, and British actor Benedict Cumberbatch, the narrator reflects on the greats who have passed through SNL’s hallowed halls. But then, with a twist of humor, the narrator adds, “Also, Steven Seagal. And this Saturday… Dave’s back.”
The reference to Seagal stands out, as the actor has earned a reputation as one of the least favorite SNL hosts. This is due to his notoriously difficult behavior when he hosted the show back in 1991. Over the years, cast members have openly criticized Seagal’s performance as a host, with comedian and former cast member David Spade famously recalling in a 2015 interview on *Watch What Happens Live* that Seagal was the worst host he’d worked with on the show. According to Spade, the actor was difficult to collaborate with and “did not want to play along” during sketches. Spade further described Seagal as being “tough to work with,” which has only fueled the actor’s infamous legacy at SNL.
The promo sets the stage for Chappelle’s much-anticipated return to *SNL*. This marks the third time Chappelle has hosted the iconic comedy series, having made notable returns following the presidential elections in 2016 and 2020. His previous appearances have been celebrated for his sharp, insightful commentary on the political and social climate of the time. This time around, Chappelle is back with a fresh perspective and is expected to bring his signature wit and bold humor to the stage once again.
In addition to Chappelle’s hosting duties, the episode will feature musical guest GloRilla, a rising star in the rap and hip-hop scene, and Timothée Chalamet, who will make his third hosting appearance on the show. Chalamet, known for his roles in films like *Dune* and *Call Me by Your Name*, will also be promoting his latest project—*A Complete Unknown*, a biopic about legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. Chalamet is expected to perform covers of Dylan’s classic songs, adding another layer of excitement to the episode.
While Chappelle’s return has garnered the most attention, the mention of Seagal in the promo is a reminder of the eccentric characters and controversies that *Saturday Night Live* has witnessed over its 50-year run. The show has never shied away from poking fun at both the highs and lows of celebrity culture, and Seagal’s inclusion in the promo is a testament to the show’s ability to continue finding humor in unexpected places.
Seagal himself has been involved in various controversies throughout his career, the most recent being his outspoken support for Russia. In March 2023, he declared his full allegiance to Russia after receiving an award from President Vladimir Putin. His remarks, which included accusing the U.S. of spreading disinformation, were met with widespread criticism. These actions, coupled with his already strained reputation from his SNL appearance, have cemented Seagal’s place in pop culture as a divisive figure.
As *Saturday Night Live* continues to evolve, the upcoming episode promises to deliver the same blend of political satire, celebrity humor, and musical performances that fans have come to expect. With Chappelle returning to address the state of the world and the comedic landscape, alongside Chalamet and GloRilla, the show will surely provide a memorable evening of laughter and entertainment.
This new episode of *SNL* promises to be a significant one, not only because of Chappelle’s return but also because it highlights the show’s enduring ability to bring together a diverse range of talent—making each episode an event in its own right. The ongoing humor directed at Steven Seagal only adds to the legend of *Saturday Night Live* as a show that knows how to mix sharp satire with unforgettable moments.
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